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CRETE

Crete is a fantastic vacation spot because it mixes history, natural beauty, and lively local culture. With stunning beaches, ancient ruins, and charming towns, there’s something for everyone. You can explore archaeological sites, relax on beautiful beaches, or wander through the most charming of old towns. The warm Mediterranean climate is great for outdoor activities year-round, and the island’s welcoming vibe makes you feel right at home.

Brian and I embarked on an unforgettable adventure to Crete, where we spent nearly a month soaking up the beauty and charm of the island. This trip marked our first significant escape after the disruptions of the Covid pandemic, and it truly felt like a breath of fresh air.

We based ourselves in three awesome cities: Rethymno, Chania, and Elounda, each offering its unique flavor of Cretan life. Our time in Crete was a truly memorable experience.

Below is a little insight from our travels:

Weather and Best Time to Visit

Crete enjoys a Mediterranean climate, so you can expect hot, dry summers and mild, wet winters. The peak tourist season is summer (June to August), with temperatures often soaring above 87°F. If you prefer milder weather and fewer crowds, consider visiting in the shoulder seasons—late spring (May) or early autumn (September and October). During these times, the weather is pleasant, and the island is lush and less crowded.

  • Explore Knossos Palace: Dive into Minoan history at this ancient site near Heraklion.
  • Hike Samaria Gorge: A dramatic 16-kilometer hike through one of Europe’s longest gorges, offering breathtaking views and varied landscapes.
  • Visit Elounda and Spinalonga: Take a boat trip to explore the historic island and enjoy the surrounding scenery.
  • Wander around Rethymno and Chania’s Old Towns: Get lost in the charming streets, try local food, and soak up the atmosphere.
  • Relax at a Beach: Spend time on one of Crete’s many stunning beaches—each with its own unique charm.
  • Day on the Water: Take a boat trip to the stunning Balos Lagoon and enjoy swimming in turquoise water and walking on the white sandy beach.

Best Beaches

  • Balos Lagoon: A stunning lagoon accessible by boat or a hike, with white sand and turquoise waters.
  • Seitan Limania Beach: Nestled between high cliffs, this beach is a bit of a hidden gem and requires a descent down a steep path, but the scenery is worth it.
  • Falassarna Beach: Known for its wide stretch of sand and clear, shallow waters, making it great for families.
  • Preveli Beach: Located near a river mouth, it has unique palm forest surroundings and a beautiful natural setting.
  • Elafonissi Beach: On the southwest coast, this beach is famous for its pink sand and clear waters. It’s ideal for swimming and sunbathing.

Atmosphere

Crete has a laid-back vibe with a blend of historical charm and natural beauty. The island’s diverse landscape ranges from rugged mountains to serene beaches, creating a relaxed yet vibrant atmosphere. Whether you’re exploring ancient ruins, enjoying a leisurely meal by the sea, or hiking through stunning gorges, Crete offers a mix of cultural, historical, and natural experiences.

Popular Towns

1) RETHYMNO

Let’s start with my favorite Cretian town, Rethymno! I can’t even begin to describe how amazing it is and already can’t wait to go back for another visit. It’s simply the most lovely, lively, and charming town you could imagine.

Old Town

The heart of Rethymno is its Old Town, a maze of narrow streets and alleys that showcase a mix of Venetian, Turkish, and Greek architecture. If you get the opportunity, do a tour here.  It’s an engaging history lesson. 

Wandering through these streets feels like stepping back in time, with charming shops, cafes, and historical buildings around every corner. Highlights include the Venetian Fortress which has panoramic views of the city and the sea, as well as the Rimondi Fountain, a beautiful 17th-century landmark.

Beaches

Rethymno old town also has a sandy beach right next to the city. It’s perfect for a day of sunbathing and swimming, with plenty of nearby beach bars and restaurants. It’s a great spot for a relaxed day out without having to venture far from the city center.

Local Life and Dining

The city has a lively atmosphere, especially in the evenings when the streets, restaurants, and bars come alive with guests. You’ll find a range of dining options, from traditional tavernas serving classic Cretan dishes to more modern restaurants offering innovative cuisine. Here are a few we really liked:

  • 7 Thalasses: Nestled in Rethymno’s Old Town, this spot is perfect if you’re craving top-notch seafood with a modern twist. The fresh ingredients and creative dishes make it a real treat.
  • RoofMezze 360: This rooftop gem offers a cool atmosphere with stunning city and sea views. It’s a great place to enjoy traditional Greek mezze.
  • Prima Plora: Right by the waterfront, Prima Plora serves up delicious Mediterranean seafood and other dishes. The setting is charming, and the views of the harbor are a nice bonus.

Highlights

Rethymno also has several interesting museums and cultural sites. The Archaeological Museum of Rethymno and the Historical and Folk Art Museum, both provide a glimpse into traditional Cretan life, customs and history.

We took the Rethymno Walking and Gastronomy Tour with Michael as our guide, and it was a fantastic experience. He gave us a deep dive into the history of Rethymno and Crete, which was incredibly eye-opening. We explored many corners of the old town, starting with a quaint Kafeneio where we enjoyed handmade cheese pie and Greek coffee. Michael shared insights into Cretan culinary traditions, and we got to taste some amazing olive oil and honey, plus watch fresh phyllo being made.

Our next stop was a tavern in a private garden from the Venetian era, where we sampled a mix of Cretan and Ottoman dishes and sipped on raki, a traditional Cretan drink. The tour was excellent, and I highly recommend it!

Accommodations

We loved our rental house in Crete (see review and video here).  It honestly couldn’t have been any better (see my review here).  This house, located right on the waterfront, was absolutely FABULOUS!  We loved it so much that we attempted to extend our stay, but unfortunately for us they were already booked. 

If you’re heading to Crete, definitely make Rethymno your top pick. It’s a lively city that perfectly mixes historical charm with vibrant energy and stunning beauty. It’s the perfect spot to base yourself for exploring the rest of Crete.

2) HERAKLION

Heraklion, the largest city on Crete, is a bustling port city filled with lively markets, where you can find everything from fresh local produce to unique handcrafted goods. The city’s central square, Eleftherias Square, is a lively area, lined with cafes and shops.

One of the main attractions is the Heraklion Archaeological Museum. This museum is a treasure trove of Minoan artifacts, including pottery, frescoes, and statues that offer an interesting glimpse into one of Europe’s earliest advanced civilizations. Its collection is among the most important in Greece and display the achievements of the Minoans.

Just a short drive from Heraklion is Knossos Palace, the largest Bronze Age archaeological site in Greece and perhaps the most famous of Crete’s ancient ruins. This enormous complex was the center of the Minoan civilization, and it is interesting to visit and understand how advanced they were for the time.  In fact, it feels as though you’re stepping back in time, letting you imagine the grandeur of Minoan life and see artwork and statues that depict the myths and legends of ancient Greece.  Both of these sites are a must-visit for anyone interested in understanding the depth of Crete’s past.

3) CHANIA

Chania Old Town is a maze of history and charm. The charming streets are narrow and winding, and lined with a mix of Venetian, Turkish, and Greek architecture, reflecting its diverse past. As you stroll through, you’ll find colorful houses and old warehouses, many of which have been converted into shops and restaurants.

One of the highlights is the harbor, where the waterfront is dotted with many restaurants and bars. There is an old lighthouse that is a scenic spot that is a great place for photos.   

Don’t miss the charming squares like Eleftherios Venizelos Square, where you can relax and people watch, or visit the Archaeological Museum of Chania.  Chania Old Town is a very charming area to explore.

Where to Dine

When we visited Chania Old Town in September, it was pretty bustling, so I’d suggest booking your dinner reservations ahead of time. We had a great experience at Apros Gatos, enjoying a tasty Greek salad and drinks. We didn’t get a chance to try Oinoa Wine Restaurant, but our concierge raved about it, and it has some fantastic reviews.

Chania Beaches

These beaches are all easily accessible from Chania and offer a range of experiences, from bustling and lively to calm and peaceful.

  • Nea Chora Beach is just a short walk west of Chania’s Old Town. It’s a sandy beach that’s popular, so can be busy at times.  It’s convenient, with a lively promenade lined with cafes and restaurants. The waters are clear and calm.
  • Koum Kapi Beach is located just to the east of Chania’s Old Town.  It’s a pebble beach with a more laid-back vibe.  Like Nea Chora, it is also located near bars and restaurants, but is usually less crowded.
  • Chrissi Akti Beach is about 3 miles east of Chania Old Town and has sandy shores and clear waters.  It’s a popular beach with good facilities, including sunbeds, umbrellas, and various water sports. There are also plenty of cafes and restaurants in the vicinity. 
  • Kalamaki Beach is a pebble beach just a tad bit further away than Chrissi but is less crowded and more tranquil.

Accommodations

Domes Zeen Chania is a fantastic spot right on Nea Chora Beach. The hotel has a modern, stylish vibe. You can walk straight onto the sandy beach or relax by the beautiful pool. The rooms are comfy and well-designed, and the restaurant serves up great Mediterranean food. It’s a laid-back yet elegant place with a great beachside location. 

You can read my review and view some video of the our room here.

4) ELOUNDA, AGIOS NIKOLAS AND PLAKA

Elounda is a quiet, upscale resort town on the northeast coast of Crete, known for its luxury hotels and stunning views, as well as its close proximity to the ancient site of Spinalonga. It’s perfect for a relaxed, scenic getaway. Just a 10-15 minute drive away, Agios Nikolaos offers a livelier atmosphere with plenty of amenities. Nearby, the charming village of Plaka adds to the mix with its picturesque and laid-back vibe. Each place has its own distinct character, making the area a diverse and appealing destination.

  • Agios Nikolaos is a lively and picturesque town known for its vibrant waterfront and Lake Voulismeni, a central feature surrounded by cafes and restaurants. The town has a more bustling, urban feel with plenty of shopping options, local markets, and a variety of dining spots. It’s a good base for exploring the surrounding area and offers a range of accommodations, from budget to luxury.
  • Elounda is a smaller, more upscale resort town that exudes a more tranquil and relaxed vibe. It’s famous for its luxury hotels and scenic views, particularly of the nearby Spinalonga Island. Elounda is quieter compared to Agios Nikolaos, making it ideal for those seeking a more peaceful and high-end experience. The town has a charming waterfront, but its attractions are more focused on relaxation and luxury, with fewer shopping and dining options compared to Agios Nikolaos.
  • Plaka is just a short drive from Elounda.  It’s a small, picturesque village with a charming, traditional feel. It’s known for its lovely sea views and laid-back atmosphere. The village has several excellent tavernas where you can enjoy local cuisine with a view of the sea and Spinalonga Island.

Overall, if you’re looking for a lively town with plenty of amenities and local charm, Agios Nikolaos is the place to be. For a more serene and upscale experience with stunning views, Elounda is a great choice. If you prefer a quaint, picturesque village with a relaxed vibe and easy access to both, Plaka offers a charming alternative.

Accommodations

When we were in this area, we stayed at Domes of Elounda, a top-notch resort located right by the sea. It has stunning views, luxurious accommodations, and relaxed atmosphere. The resort offers a variety of stylish rooms and villas, some with private pools (see video of our private pool room here).  You’ll find great dining options, beautiful gardens, and a fantastic spa.

Dining

There are so many fantastic dining options in this area, but two of our favorites really stand out. First up is Thalassa, a relaxed yet beautifully situated seaside restaurant. We had a great meal there, with incredible service and a view that’s hard to top—eating right by the water really adds to the experience. Then there’s Archontiko, which is perfect for a special night out. The location is stunning, and the octopus we had was truly amazing—cooked to perfection and bursting with flavor. Plus, the owner was incredibly generous and gifted us a bottle of their family’s homemade olive oil, which was a lovely touch. Both spots offer memorable meals and settings that truly enhance the dining experience.

Exploring Crete is a breeze with several convenient transportation options, each offering a different way to experience the island’s beauty. Renting a car is one of the best ways to see Crete at your own pace. With a rental car, you can easily access remote beaches, charming villages, and ancient ruins that might be tricky to reach otherwise. The island’s road network is well-developed, though some mountain roads can be winding, so a bit of caution is advised.

While I recommend driving, for those who prefer not to, Crete has a reliable bus system that connects major towns and popular attractions. The KTEL bus service offers comfortable and affordable travel across the island, making it easy to hop from one destination to another. In larger towns like Chania and Heraklion, local buses and taxis are readily available for shorter trips.

If you’re staying in coastal areas, consider using ferries to explore nearby islands or to travel between towns along the coast. Ferries offer a scenic and enjoyable way to see Crete from the water.

Lastly, taxis and ridesharing apps are a convenient option for getting around town or for shorter trips, especially if you’re looking for a bit of flexibility without the hassle of parking.

Payments and Currency: When it comes to payments and currency in Crete, you’ll find it pretty easy to manage. The official currency is the Euro (€), so make sure to have some on hand for your trip. Credit and debit cards are widely accepted at most hotels, restaurants, and shops, especially in larger towns and tourist spots. However, it’s always a good idea to carry a bit of cash for smaller establishments or places that might not accept cards.

ATMs are readily available throughout the island, so you can easily withdraw cash as needed. Just be mindful of any fees your bank might charge for international transactions.

Overall, managing your money in Crete is straightforward, and having a mix of cash and card options will keep things smooth during your travels.

Embrace Local Customs: Greeks are known for their hospitality, so be polite and friendly. Don’t be surprised if you’re offered a free coffee or a small treat; it’s a common gesture.

Rent a Car: Renting a car will give you the freedom to explore Crete’s diverse landscapes and hidden gems at your own pace.

Try the Local Cuisine: Don’t miss out on traditional Cretan dishes like moussaka, dakos, and fresh seafood. Local tavernas often offer the most authentic dining experiences.

Emergency Contacts: In Crete, the emergency number is 112. If you’re using a USA cell phone, you can dial 112 directly for police, medical emergencies, or fire services. This number can be dialed without a country code.

Electrical Adapters: Crete uses the standard European two-pin plug (Type C and Type F) with a voltage of 230V.

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